Kinesin Spindle Protein (KIF11) in Mitosis and Cancer.
João P N Silva1, Patrícia M A Silva1,2,3, Hassan Bousbaa1
1UNIPRO-Oral Pathology and Rehabilitation Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences (IUCS), Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário (CESPU), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|September 27, 2025
Summary
Kinesin spindle protein (KSP) is vital for cell division and genomic stability. Inhibiting KSP, which is overexpressed in cancers, offers a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Kinesin spindle protein (KSP), also known as KIF11, is a motor protein crucial for mitosis.
- KSP regulates spindle assembly, chromosome alignment, and segregation, ensuring genomic stability.
- Overexpression of KSP is linked to uncontrolled cell proliferation in various cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the molecular mechanisms of KSP function.
- To explore the regulation of KSP through post-translational modifications.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting KSP in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of KSP function, structure, and activity.
- Analysis of KSP interactions with other mitotic proteins.
- Examination of post-translational modifications affecting KSP.
Main Results:
- KSP's motor activity is essential for microtubule organization during mitosis.
- Structural features, ATPase activity, and protein interactions define KSP function.
- Phosphorylation is a key post-translational modification regulating KSP.
Conclusions:
- KSP is a critical target for cancer therapy due to its role in proliferation.
- Understanding KSP regulation provides insights into potential therapeutic interventions.
- Inhibiting KSP activity represents a promising strategy for developing novel cancer treatments.
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